The Starter Company Plus program is funded by the Government of Ontario and delivered by the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County and Orillia. The program is designed to help entrepreneurs start, grow or buy a business. Participants receive mentorship from experienced business professionals, access to valuable training and networking opportunities, as well as the opportunity to pitch for up to $5,000 in micro-grants.
The Small Business Centre team is excited to share the companies they had the chance to work with last fall.
Meet Uche Onyekpe and Techeccentric
Uche Onyekpe and Techeccentric translate complex technology into targeted solutions. They provide specialized consulting and implementation across the areas of cloud computing, data analytics, cybersecurity, emerging tech, DevOps, specialized tech projects, and more. Their consulting services are also augmented by access to TaaS—Qurate’s extensive pool of top-tier global tech talent available for contract or permanent hiring—all to help simplify tech ecosystems and reach maximum return on investment.
Interview with Uche
- What is your favourite part about being an entrepreneur?
My favourite part about being an entrepreneur is the ability to create solutions that impact people's lives. I enjoy the process of identifying gaps in the market and innovating products and services, like our custom AI developments and mentorship programs, to meet those needs.
- What inspired you to start a business?
I was inspired to start Techeccentric because of my passion for technology and education. I saw the potential in helping others transition into tech careers through practical training and mentorship. The desire to bridge the gap between learning and job placement has always driven me.
- What services/ products do you offer?
Techeccentric offers a range of services, including cybersecurity solutions, managed detection and response, custom AI development, and DevOps implementation. Under QurateHQ, we provide training and mentorship programs in cybersecurity, DevOps, data analytics, and other tech fields, designed for individuals transitioning into tech or upskilling.
- Who do you look up to for inspiration when it comes to either being an entrepreneur or your business?
I look up to Elon Musk for his ability to innovate across different industries, but closer to my field, I admire pioneers like Satya Nadella, who have redefined leadership in technology. Their strategic vision and relentless pursuit of innovation inspire me.
- How did you come up with your business name?
The name "Techeccentric" reflects my belief in using technology to create unique and impactful solutions. I wanted a name that conveyed our focus on tech and our approach to solving problems in a way that stands out from the norm.
- What is unique about your business?
What sets us apart is our combination of cutting-edge technology solutions with a strong focus on mentorship and training. We don't just provide services; we empower individuals to succeed in tech by bridging the gap between training and real-world job placement.
- What’s the most surprising thing you’ve learned about yourself through your entrepreneurial journey?
The most surprising thing I’ve learned is how adaptable I am. The ability to pivot, whether it's from banking to IT or adjusting business strategies based on market needs, has been essential to our success. I’ve also discovered a passion for teaching and mentorship that has become central to what we do at Qurate.
- What’s the best piece of advice you would give to another entrepreneur?
The best advice I can give is to be persistent and adaptable. Entrepreneurship comes with unexpected challenges, and the ability to pivot and learn from setbacks is key to long-term success. Never stop learning and evolving your business.
- What do you hope to achieve through the Starter Company Plus program?
Through the Starter Company Plus program, I hope to expand our mentorship platform, enhance our training programs, and scale our operations to reach a broader audience. I’m also looking to build partnerships that can help us impact more individuals transitioning into tech.
To learn more about Uche Onyekpe and Techeccentric, you can reach out via email at info@techeccentric.io or head to their website: techeccentric.io. Follow Techeccentric on social media to stay informed about their services:
X (Twitter): @TecheccentricC
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/techeccentric-consulting/
Learn More About the Starter Company Plus Program
To learn more about the Starter Company Plus program, reach out to the Small Business Centre of Barrie, Simcoe County & Orillia today at smallbusiness@barrie.ca or 705-720-2445.